Police investigating the death of an 18-year-old knocked off a dirt bike near Kaikohe say witnesses are refusing to cooperate and actively resisting the inquiry.
Jahkani Hamilton died on Ngapipito Road on 5 May. His body was discovered shortly after 11pm that night. Another rider with him suffered serious injuries in the same incident and was found nearby.
Detective Senior Sergeant Christan Fouhy said people in the Mid North community know what happened but are choosing to remain silent. "This is incredibly frustrating for our team, who are working to seek answers on behalf of a grieving whānau," he said.
Fouhy urged witnesses to come forward. "No matter what's happened, a young person has lost their life and people need to start talking."
He warned that "misleading police or concealing evidence is a criminal offence, and taking part in this may mean you find yourself being prosecuted".
Police launched Operation Concert on the night of the incident. Fouhy said the investigation would not be going away and acknowledged the patience shown by Hamilton's family.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police via 105 using reference number 260506/1270, or Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 for anonymous tips.